Let’s face it – doing your own home repairs can be tough. And if you’re planning to install a lot of drywall or plaster, then what you’ll need is the best screw gun.
Screw guns are an essential part of every DIY tool kit. These light and compact woodworking tools spin faster than drills and produce less torque, but without the risk of ruining drywall. They easily adjust the depth each screw needs for more accurate and consistent results – lessening the chance of wrist damage or arm fatigue from repeatedly driving screws in or out of the wall.
Unfortunately, not all screw guns are created equal. And with dozens of popular choices on the market, choosing the best one can be challenging.
We get it – it isn’t very clear. To give you a head start, we’ve scoured the market and assembled a list of the 10 best screw guns. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide to walking you through the features and benefits you should look for before making your final decision.
Quick Comparison of Top Rated 10 Screw Guns
| Product | Key Specifications | More Info |
|---|---|---|
 Bosch PS21-2A Screw Gun | Type: Compact Speed: 1300 RPM Input Power: Battery Weight: 1.4 lbs. | Price |
 Makita LCT209W Screw Gun | Type: Cordless Combo Speed: 1300 RPM Input Power: Battery Weight: 8.41 lbs. | Price |
 Dewalt DW276 Screw Gun | Type: Drywall Speed: 2500 RPM Input Power: Corded-electric Weight: 4.55 lbs. | Price |
 Ryobi Screw Gun | Type: Brushless Drywall Speed: 4700 RPM Input Power: Battery Weight: 2.59 lbs. | Price |
 Makita FS6200 Screw Gun | Type: Drywall Speed: 6000 RPM Input Power: Corded-electric Weight: 4 lbs. | Price |
 Hitachi W6V4 Drywall Screwdriver | Type: Drywall Speed: 4500 RPM Input Power: Corded-electric Weight: 3.1 lbs. | Price |
 Senco DS440AC Screwdriver | Type: Drywall Collated Speed: 2500 RPM Input Power: Corded-electric Weight: 6.5 lbs. | Price |
 DEWALT DW272 Drywall Screw Gun | Type: Drywall Speed: 4000 RPM Input Power: Corded-electric Weight: 4.15 lbs. | Price |
 Dewalt DW268 Screw Gun | Type: Drywall Speed: 2500 RPM Input Power: Corded-electric Weight: 4.3 lbs. | Price |
 Dewalt DCF6201 Screw Gun | Type: Drywall Collated Speed: 4400 RPM Input Power: Battery Weight: 1.3 lbs. | Price |
The Right Choice: Our Picks for the 10 Best Electric Screwdriver
Before picking the best items, I did in-depth research, read reviews, made a session with experts, and received comments from people who used the items practically. Then I come up with the top 10 products. Be sure; every product will satisfy you with their performance.
Check these out.
1Bosch Screw Gun PS21-2A 12V Max 2-Speed Pocket Driver Kit
- Type: Cordless
- Speed: 1300 RPM
- Weight: 1.4 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- Two-speed mechanism: 0-350 rpm, 0-1300 rpm
- 20+1 clutch torque settings
- Universal bit holder
- Built-in LED light
- Short head length (5.6 inches)
- Forward and reverse rotation
The first things you’ll notice about the Bosch PS21 12v Max Two-speed Pocket Driver are its small size and lightweight build. Combining these two features makes this screw gun a compact tool – small enough to carry anywhere with ease. Being the best cordless screwdriver model, it’s the perfect choice for both at-home repairs and off-site repair jobs.
But don’t be fooled by its small size – this screw gun is top-notch when it comes to power and speed. It delivers an incredible maximum torque of up to 265 inch-pounds, suitable for overhead driving. It features a variable speed trigger that allows you to switch to and from two desired speeds: 0-350 rpm and 0-1,300 rpm. The first speed is ideal for driving screws into heavy-duty materials, while the second speed works great for lighter screw work.
This screw gun’s standout feature is its concise head length at only 5.6 inches – making it the ideal tool to use in tight corners and small working spaces. As an added feature, it has a built-in LED light so you can handle repairs even at night.
What We Liked Most:
- Cordless
- Small and compact
- Strong torque and high power output
What Could Be Better:
- Lacks durability
- Battery dies faster if the LED light is constantly used
2Makita Screw Gun LCT209W 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit
- Type: Cordless
- Speed: 1300 RPM
- Weight: 8.41 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- 3/8 inch driver drill
- 12-volt max lithium-ion battery
- Rapid charging system: charges in 30 minutes
- Soft grip handles
- Two-speed system: 0-350 and 0-1300 rpm
- 200 inch-pounds max torque
As far as cordless screw guns go, this one is definitely at the top of the list. The Makita LCT209W 12-volt max lithium-ion cordless two-piece combo kit includes a 3/8 inch driver drill that is an excellent addition to any DIY tool kit. Because it’s cordless, it helps you reach into tighter corners or do ceiling work -without having to worry about tripping on a power cord.
Its main feature is a variable two-speed system that comes with two options: 0-350 and 0-1300 rpm. Aside from its heavy build, this cordless screw gun delivers an incredible 200 inch-pounds of maximum torque. With its lightweight structure, it’s an ultra-compact tool that’s easy to carry around.
The highlight of this screw gun is Makita’s 12-volt max lithium-ion battery. This is an extremely heavy-duty battery with efficient charging power that will help you work for hours on end, so you to worry about losing power while in the middle of a project.
What We Liked Most:
- Cordless
- Fast charging
- Easy to grip
What Could Be Better:
- Not compatible with larger and wider screws
- Not compatible with larger and wider screws
3Dewalt Drywall Screw Gun DW276 Variable Speed Reversible, 6.5-Amp
- Type: Drywall
- Speed: 2500 RPM
- Weight: 4.55 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- Corded-electric
- Helical-cut, heat-treated steel gears
- High torque
- Metal gear housing
- Depth-sensitive, forget-inch nosepiece
- Rubber grip
- Two-finger trigger
Every professional contractor will tell you that one of the first things to look for in a good screw gun is the motor power. And when it comes to this, the DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun (DW276) does not disappoint. It features a powerful 6.5 amp motor that works great for deck building, drywall installation, and heavy gauge steel stud framing.
This screw gun prides itself on offering both consistency and accuracy. We love its variable speed reversible system that not only adjusts to your ideal speed but also rotates both ways – it has both a forward and reverse mode. It also features a forget-inch nosepiece that makes it easy to adjust screw depth, as well as a locking trigger.
The gears are housed in a metal casing to prevent rust and corrosion. Another notable feature is the rubber grip and two-finger trigger that helps you handle the tool better for more driving control.
What We Liked Most:
- High power output
- Versatile rotational features
- Depth is easy to adjust
What Could Be Better:
- Metal gear housing makes it bulky and heavy
- The motor tends to overheat after constant use
4Ryobi Screw Gun 18-Volt ONE+ Brushless Drywall Screw Gun
- Type: Cordless
- Speed: 4700 RPM
- Weight: 2.59 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- Quiet Drive noise reducing feature
- Brushless motor
- Variable speed trigger with lock-on feature
- Heavy-duty clutch
- Automatic start mechanism
- Built-in LED light
- Multiple belt clips
- 18-volt battery
One of the most common complaints when using screw guns is the screeching noise it makes. This is why we included the Ryobi 18-volt One+ Brushless Drywall Screw Gun on this list. It features a QuietDrive feature that is specially designed to start the motor automatically upon contact with the surface. This significantly blocks out annoying noise so you can drive in screws without any external distractions.
Aside from reducing noise, the QuietDrive feature also helps conserve battery so that this tool lasts longer. Its brushless motor offers you different speed levels for a variety of different projects, as well as a high power output of up to 4700 rpm.
Other features of this best cordless screwdriver that we believe are worth mentioning are the multiple belt clips that allow you to attach it to your tool belt for easy handling and convenience. It also has an adjustable and removable nose cone for increased accuracy and a variable speed trigger with a lock-on feature.
What We Liked Most:
- Reduces drive noise
- Convenient to use
- Cordless
What Could Be Better:
- Good for beginners, but not for professional use
5Makita Drywall Screw Gun FS6200 Powerful 6.0 AMP Motor
- Type: Corded
- Speed: 6000 RPM
- Weight: 4 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- 6 amp motor
- Ergonomic grip
- Cast aluminum gear housing
- Variable speed trigger with lock-on button: up to 6000 rpm
- The adjustable depth locator assembly
- Built-in LED light
- Steel-reinforced belt clip
- Directional airflow channels
If the main feature you’re looking for in a screw gun is versatility, then the Makita Drywall Screwdriver (FS6200) is your go-to tool. It works well for a wide range of home repair and renovation work – from installing drywall to framing and hanging applications.
Designed for increased comfort, this screw gun has an ergonomic grip on handling the tool without strain on your wrist. It delivers maximum power through its 6 amp motor that offers 0-6000 rpm to complete any repair job. Like other corded screw guns, it comes with an adjustable depth locator and a sure-lock feature for consistent and accurate screw depth.
What sets this screw gun apart from others on the market is its inclusion of a depth locator holder for convenient handling during framing applications. It also comes fully equipped with a built-in LED light that helps illuminate dark corners and hard-to-reach areas like the ceiling.
What We Liked Most:
- Doesn’t overheat
- Good for the night and outdoor use
- Rust and corrosion-resistant
What Could Be Better:
- Not recommended for left-handed persons
6Hitachi Screw Gun W6V4 6.6 Amp Drywall Screwdriver
- Type: Corded
- Speed: 4500 RPM
- Weight: 3.1 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- Heavy-duty 6.6 amp motor: 750 watts
- Depth adjusting, detachable nose piece
- Durable elastomer handle24-foot cordSilent clutchVariable speed system: up to 4500 rpm
The handle of a screw gun is one of the most important parts of this tool because it forms the control base. The Hitachi W6V4 Drywall Screwdriver amplifies the regular handle using soft and durable elastomer material that offers both an ergonomic design for lesser arm fatigue and a firmer grip for better overall control.
At the forefront of this screw gun’s key features is the 6.6 motor with over 750 watts of input power. This is powerful enough to provide a superior driving power of up to 4500 rpm. Hitachi balances out this high power output with the inclusion of a silent clutch – so that you get excellent speed with minimum drive noise. While this model is corded, you won’t have to worry about movement or flexibility because it has a 24-foot cord.
What We Liked Most:
- Long cord for more movement
- Detachable and easy to clean
What Could Be Better:
- Silent clutch does not totally block out noise
- Quality control problems
7Senco Screw Gun DS440AC Screwdriver Kit 20-3/4 in
- Type: Corded
- Speed: 2500 RPM
- Weight: 6.5 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- Electric-corded
- Autofeed screw system
- Patented corner fit feed system
- Variable speed trigger with lock and reverse: up to 2500 rpm
- Adjustable screw length
- Belt clip for easy attachment
Interestingly, the Senco 20-3/4 Inch Screwdriver (DS440AC) is its unique design – it looks like an old-school machine gun. While it doesn’t shoot bullets, this screw gun’s mechanism does, in fact, work in the same way as a machine gun: it features an auto-feed function that automatically loads another screw in place as soon as the first one is ejected, significantly reducing the amount of completion time on a project.
The belt feeder can hold up to thirty screws for continuous use. To prevent stuck-ups between loads, Senco patented a corner fit feed system that eliminates friction with the rubber band. With a variable speed system of up to a maximum of 2500 rpm, this screw gun works just as well on metal as it does on wood.
What We Liked Most:
- Autofeed system helps increase productivity
- Ergonomic and beginner-friendly design
What Could Be Better:
- Difficult to assemble
- Compatible with Senco screws, but not with other brands
8DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun DW272 6.3-Amp
- Type: Corded
- Speed: 4000 RPM
- Weight: 4.15 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- 6.3 amp motor
- Variable speed trigger of up to 4000 rpm
- Depth sensitive set-and-forget nosepiece
- Soft pistol-grip design
- Rubber grip and two-finger trigger
- Metal gear housing
- Helical-cut, heat-treated steel gears
The last entry on our list is another standout model from DEWALT. With a 6.3 amp motor and variable speeds up to a whopping 4000 rpm, this corded screw gun is one of the fastest screw guns on the market. Aside from speed, this feature also means more secure fastening even on metal surfaces. It has a strong and sturdy build, great for heavy-duty repairs and renovations.
At the heart of this tool is its focus on comfortable handling. It features a pistol-grip design for a firm hold and a rubber grip coupled with a two-finger trigger to lessen wrist strain.
This screw gun is also incredibly durable – it has a metal gear housing that holds heat-treated, helical-cut steel gears to prevent rust and corrosion from accumulating over time. It’s one of the most reliable tools if you’re planning to do repair work in tough conditions.
What We Liked Most:
- One of the fastest screw guns from DEWALT
- Durable; can last for years with little to no part replacement
- Rubber soft grip for better handling
What Could Be Better:
- Great for drywall installation, but not for other woodwork
- Depth level is not always consistent
9Dewalt Screw Gun DW268 Drywall 6.5-Amp
- Type: Drywall
- Speed: 2500 RPM
- Weight: 4.3 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- Power range: 0 to 2500 RPM
- High power 6.5 amp motor
- Helical cut, heat-treated steel gears
- Versa-clutch torque adjustment system
- Multi-speed and reversal switch
- Rubber grip and two-finger trigger
With a high torque capability and strong gears, the DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun, 6.5-Amp (DW268), is every professional contractor’s go-to companion. Its standout feature is the versa-clutch torque adjusted system – a patented technology common to most products coming from DEWALT. This enables simple torque adjustment using an easy-to-use dial to perform at top speeds without damaging fasteners. With just a few clicks, you can go from zero to a whopping 2500 rpm.
If you’re worried about constant part replacement, the DEWALT DW268 is the solution to all your problems. It’s incredibly low maintenance and made to last for years. The outer portion may look like it’s made of firm plastic, but the inner portions are made of helical-cut and heat-treated steel gears – built to withstand normal wear and tear.
While most screw guns focus only on drywall installment and repair, the DEWALT DW268 is a versatile best electric screwdriver tool specially designed to cater to a wide range of surfaces, like metal softwood. This tool is equipped with excellent ergonomics, including a rubber grip and two-finger trigger – so your hands are less strained even through long, intense repair work.
What We Liked Most:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Easy to carry around
- Durable and low maintenance
- Ergonomic design for lesser fatigue
What Could Be Better:
- The cord is a bit short
- Beginners may find it hard to use at first
10Dewalt Drywall Screw Gun DCF6201 20V MAX XR Collated Magazine
- Type: Drywall
- Speed: 4400 RPM
- Weight: 1.3 lbs.
Highlight Features:
- Tool-free screw length adjustment button (1 inch to 2-inch capacity)
- Disassembly release button
- Collated screw strip guide
- Screw length detent marks
- Screw drive depth gauge
- Magazine attachment release buttons
One of the most daunting tasks when installing drywall is manually loading every screw by hand. Not only is it time-consuming, but this process can also put a strain on your hands and wrists. To address this particular issue, DEWALT came up with its 20V Max Drywall Screw Gun Collated Magazine Accessory (DCF6201).
This screw gun accessory is incredibly versatile – it allows you to quickly convert to and from an auto-feed collated screw driving system. This system is a modern mechanism that speeds up job completion, particularly when working with large drywall sheets. The process is easy to understand: it operates on a clip of screws attached to a plastic sheet that you then feed into the screw gun. With just a click of a button, it automatically loads another screw in place as soon as the first one is ejected.
Aside from speeding up the process of loading screws, this screw gun accessory also allows you to quickly change screw sizes and driving depth according to your current project’s needs. The attachment is easy to remove by hand, while the parts are easily dissembled for occasional blow-out or cleaning.
What We Liked Most:
- Lightweight
- Easy assembly and disassembly
- Easy to clean
What Could Be Better:
- Compatible only with cordless screw guns, not corded ones
BUYER’S GUIDE AND FAQ
You’ve seen our list of the best screw guns on the market, and we know you can’t wait to start doing your repairs. But before you rush off to the store to buy one, here are a few questions that we’ll help you answer:
What are the Key Features to Look Out for When Choosing a Screw Gun?
1. Fast Motor Speed
A screw gun with fast motor speed guarantees accuracy and expediency in installing drywalls and ensures that the fasteners penetrate more deeply for a more stable finish. Speed in screw guns is measured by rotations per minute (rpm), and a good rpm range is somewhere between 2000 and 6000 pm.
2. High Torque
Torque refers to the amount of power output of a screw gun and is measured in Newton Meter or NM. A higher torque generally means better performance because it implies that the screw gun has a higher rotational force.
3. Adjustability
You’ll need a screw gun that has an adjustable nose to control how deep each screw goes through. Another significant adjustment is rotation. Choose a screw gun that has both a forward and reverse mode for increased versatility.
4. Lightweight
Screw guns are hand-held tools that are intended to make your repair work more convenient. So be sure to choose light, not too bulky, and compact for easy storage. It helps if it comes with a carrying case for persons who want to take their tools for jobs offsite.
5. Ergonomic Design
Screw guns with an ergonomic design usually include features for a firm grip, like larger two-finger triggers or throttles. This allows better hand positioning for the lesser strain on the wrist and lower arm.
6. Autofeed
One of the hardest parts of using a screw gun is manually changing one screw after another when using it. The inclusion of an auto-feed feature ensures that you get more work done in a lesser amount of time. This system automatically loads another screw in place as soon as the first one is ejected.
7. Built-in LED Light
This feature will not necessarily affect the screw gun’s power output or overall performance, but an LED light is a huge convenience when you find yourself working in a darker room or for repairs at night.
8. For Cordless Screw Guns: Longer Battery Life
Cordless screw guns give you more flexibility to move around. But if you’ve got a lot of drywall installing to do, then you’ll need to choose a screw gun with an exceedingly long battery life.
9. For Corded Screw Guns: Longer Cord
Corded screw guns may have sound power output, but they do significantly restrict your movement. To make sure that you can go into hard-to-reach areas, pick a screw gun with a longer cord for a broader range of motion.
Also, read the important safety precautions of the collated screw guns.
How to Choose the Top Brands for Quality Screw Gun on the Market?
- Probably the most well-known of all power tool manufacturers, this brand is known for its signature black and yellow design. Their screw guns come in various options to choose from – from corded to cordless, auto-feed to drywall – and have a reputation for healthy, long-lasting products.
- This brand focuses on durability. Its screw guns are built to withstand ordinary wear and tear for more efficient work.
- This brand has a great lineup of screw guns on the market characterized by high power output and excellent motor speed.
Why Should I Invest in a Screw Gun?
1. Quicker Installation and Increased Productivity
Why spend hours driving screws in by hand when you can get it done in mere seconds?
The combined driver and hammer facilities of a screw gun mean you can operate it with just one hand. And with the gun doing most of the high-intensity work, it maximizes your time and effort for a more comfortable and quicker installation of drywall. With a free hand and a lot of extra drilling power, you’re bound to reduce your estimated completion time by up to 20%.
2. More Power to Improve Efficiency
The high power output of screw guns is due to their high torque level and integrated rotational action. Screw guns also come with easy level adjustments to increase or decrease the depth each screw needs to drive through the drywall. It sets in screws right up to the flush point, without the screw heads losing their shape – so you get a clean, smooth finish.
3. Easy Operation
Unlike other electrical tools that are difficult to operate, screw guns are specially designed to cater to the DIY homeowner. A screw gun does the work with just a squeeze of your finger.
Also, to read collated screw gun operational manual, click here.
4. Compact and Lightweight
Screw guns are relatively small tools that don’t weigh much. You can carry them whenever and wherever you go, and can easily be stored after use.
5. Less Hand and Arm Fatigue
The screw gun’s structural composition is specially designed to remove the need to twist your wrist when driving in or removing screws. And with the screw gun doing most of the driving for you, you’re less likely to suffer muscle strains when doing repair work.
Also, read the other factors to consider while buying a screw gun.
Final Words
If you want to do a job right, then you’ll have to use the right tool.
And it’s easy to see why screw guns are every hands-on homeowner’s must-have tool – they’re powerful, easy to use, and have numerous applications. Not only do they make home repairs more convenient, but they also save you a lot of time and budget from hiring a professional contractor for simple jobs around the house.
Hopefully, our reviews and buyer’s guide have helped give you a well-informed view of what to look for in a screw gun, so that you can confidently find one that’s right for you. From installing drywall to mounting shelves – the best screw gun will let you do all these tasks, at ease and without hesitation.
